Behavioral Modification in Custody

Behavioral Modification in Custody

Introduction

  • Behavioral modification involves changing inmate behaviors while they are in custody.

  • Focused on promoting positive adaptive behaviors through structured methods.

Operant Conditioning as a Method

  • Definition: Operant conditioning is a behaviorist approach that uses reinforcement or punishment to increase or decrease the likelihood of a behavior.

  • Application: Used as a method for rehabilitation within correctional institutions to encourage good behavior among inmates.

Goals of Behavioral Modification

  • To instill adaptive behaviors during incarceration with the hope that inmates will carry these behaviors into society upon release.

  • Adaptive behaviors include:
      - Being respectful to prison staff.
      - Refraining from aggressive or disruptive behavior.
      - Adhering to prison rules and routines.

Token Economy as a Behavioral Tool

  • Concept: A structured system where inmates earn tokens for exhibiting desirable behaviors.

  • Use of Tokens: Tokens can be exchanged for rewards, enhancing the impact of positive behavior reinforcement.
      - Typical Rewards:
        - Increased access to food.
        - More time in outdoor areas.
        - Enhanced contact with family members.

  • Purpose: Reinforce adaptive behaviors until they become habitual.

Supporting Studies

  • Study by Hobbs and Halt:
      - Context: Conducted in a correctional institution for boys in the United States.
      - Findings: Observed behaviors before and after the introduction of a token economy, revealing a significant increase in appropriate behaviors among inmates.

  • Study by Cohen and Phillipsack:
      - Context: Investigated another correctional institution for boys.
      - Findings: Reported that recidivism rates in the first two years after release were two-thirds lower for inmates who participated in a token economy compared to those who did not.
      - Implication: Suggests the long-term efficacy of teaching adaptive behaviors through this method.

Limitations of Current Research

  • Sample Size: The studies cited used small samples, raising concerns about the generalizability of the results and the validity of the findings.

Comparison to Other Rehabilitation Methods

  • Ease of Implementation: Token economies are noted to be simpler to introduce compared to cognitive rehabilitation techniques, which often require highly trained professionals.

  • Study by Bassett and Blanchard:
      - Findings: Indicated that the success of token economies was heavily dependent on the presence of a program director.
      - Conclusion: When the program director was absent, and inexperienced supervisors were in charge, inmates tended to revert to maladaptive behaviors, questioning the reliability of token economy programs.

Ethical Considerations

  • Ethical Issues:
      - Token economies may create power imbalances as inmates exchange compliance for privileges and personal freedoms.
      - Concerns arise for inmates who struggle to maintain self-control, potentially facing unduly severe punishments for inability to comply with behavioral expectations.

  • Discussion of fairness in the system underscores the need for careful consideration of how behavioral modification techniques are implemented among vulnerable populations.